Physical Therapist Salary Reality — What You Actually Take Home
Physical therapists help patients improve movement and manage pain through exercise, hands-on therapy, and rehabilitation programs.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFJob outlook: Faster than average (15% growth 2024-2034)
Take-home reality
A physical therapist earning the national median of $99,710 takes home approximately $6,544/month in a no-tax state and $5,772/month in a high-tax state like California.
The salary reality
A physical therapist earning the national median of $99,710 has strong purchasing power in most cities, requiring a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Where Physical Therapist Salary Goes Furthest
Where Physical Therapist Salary Is Most Stretched
Housing context
At median salary, physical therapists can comfortably afford the median 1BR in nearly all cities, with strong savings potential outside the highest-cost metros.
Career context
Physical therapy requires a doctoral degree (typically 7 years total education), and student loan burden is a common factor affecting early-career take-home pay.
Income Reality Score — Columbus (best for this career)
Purchasing Power Reality
What a physical therapist salary feels like in other cities
Physical Therapist Salary — FAQ
What is the average physical therapist salary?
The national median is $99,710 per BLS OEWS May 2025.
How much education is required to become a physical therapist?
A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is required, typically a 3-year doctoral program after a bachelor's degree — about 7 years total.
Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2025. This is a picture, not a verdict.